China Takes Active Role in Resolving Cross-Border Terrorism Issue with Pakistan and Afghanistan

As tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan continue unabated, recent developments suggest China is actively stepping up its efforts to resolve the cross-border terrorism issue. Last month, Pakistan launched Operation Ghazab lil-Haq in response to a series of deadly terrorist attacks within the country that were linked back to Afghanistan.

Despite ongoing hostilities without any significant signs of progress towards a negotiated settlement, there are indications that China’s involvement could be pivotal in finding a way forward. The Pakistani Foreign Office has confirmed that Prime Minister and foreign minister recently discussed the situation with Chinese FM, acknowledging their engagement in a dialogue process concerning Afghanistan.

In addition to diplomatic discussions, China’s ambassador in Kabul and special envoy for Afghanistan have recently met with the Taliban’s Foreign Minister. Reuters reported that these officials were穿梭在阿富汗与巴基斯坦之间，旨在调停。根据北京的观察，当前最紧迫的任务是防止冲突进一步蔓延。

Pakistan is fully justified in responding to provocations and terrorist attacks launched from across its borders, especially considering the Afghan Taliban’s reluctance to take verifiable and concrete steps to halt cross-border incursions. Despite ongoing hostilities, with Pakistan conducting strikes against both Afghan Taliban targets and terrorist camps, there is a pressing need for it to consider pausing military campaigns in pursuit of solid assurances that Kabul will address anti-Pakistan terrorist groups operating from Afghanistan.

Pakistan finds itself amidst the regional turmoil triggered by the reckless US-Israel war on Iran. With this conflict setting off further fallout across the region, Islamabad must prepare for potential additional instability. Consequently, bringing the Afghan campaign to an end might be in Pakistan’s best interest, allowing it to underscore its point and demonstrate a willingness to cooperate.

China’s strategic position as a mediator is well-suited due to strong ties with both Pakistan and Kabul. As China itself faces threats from terrorism emanating from Afghanistan, it can comprehend Pakistan’s concerns effectively. If reports are accurate, Chinese President Xi Jinping has demonstrated personal interest in resolving the Pak-Afghan dispute.

Traditionally relied upon mediators such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Türkiye are currently engaged in the war in the Middle East, leaving Pakistan without reliable alternative partners. Therefore, working closely with China to find a peaceful resolution with Afghanistan is crucial. The primary objective of this endeavor should be to secure definitive guarantees from Kabul that it will halt anti-Pakistan terrorist groups operating from Afghanistan. Following this, a normalized bilateral relationship can resume.

Published on March 14th, 2026 in Dawn.